With Annika Schmid, Philipp Schulmeyer & Hendrik Haubold (a cooperative project of CAMBIO e.V. and the student group Plurale Ökonomik Dresden) (Smallroom) (en)

In this interactive workshop, participants were invited to rethink the economic system they live in and to imagine what it could look like if they themselves could democratically set its basic rules.

At the beginning, participants were divided into groups to discuss values and goals they believed should guide the economy. Through several rounds of stimulating discussions, the groups collectively prioritized the values they found most important. The results were then summarized in a diagram illustrating the economic direction of each group, demonstrating that it is possible to develop ideas for economic policies that serve the fundamental needs of all people—not just the existing system—even without formal expertise.

The workshop also demonstrated how diverse and multifaceted economic theories are, opening up new perspectives for participants on the possibilities of shaping a more inclusive and just future. It heightened awareness that the economy is not static but shaped by values and decisions that can be actively influenced. These insights can inspire individuals to make conscious, value-based choices in everyday life—such as those grounded in solidarity, sustainability, and justice. Individual influence can take many forms: whether through intentional consumption, supporting local initiatives, or questioning existing norms. Participants were encouraged to take small but impactful steps to initiate new norms and positive change over the long term.